Shanghais Best Live Music Bars Livehouses Explored | China AI Search Blog

Shanghai's nightlife pulses with an incredible energy, and at its heart lies a burgeoning live music scene. From intimate jazz clubs to high-octane venues hosting chart-topping pop acts and independent bands, the city truly offers a rhythm for every soul. If you've been searching for "Shanghai live music bars," you're in for a treat, but you'll quickly discover that the term "livehouse" (a dedicated music venue, often with a stage, professional sound, and sometimes a club-like atmosphere) is just as, if not more, prevalent here. This guide, compiled from insider insights and local recommendations, will help you navigate Shanghai's diverse live music landscape.

Top 3 Must-Visit Live Houses in Shanghai

One key aspect to understand before diving in is the concept of "minimum spend" (低消, dīxiāo). Unlike traditional ticketed concerts, many of Shanghai's popular livehouses, especially the higher-end ones, operate on a minimum spend per table or seating area, particularly for their regular performances. This means your "entry fee" is essentially a commitment to purchase a certain value of drinks and sometimes food, rather than a fixed ticket price. Always confirm this when booking!

Featured Livehouses & Venues

KEZEE Livehouse: The Pinnacle of Live Performance Consistently hailed as "Shanghai's top livehouse" and even a "ceiling-level" experience, KEZEE is where dazzling performances meet an upscale, concert-like ambiance. It boasts excellent sound and lighting, often featuring powerful singers – some even recognized from popular TV shows like "The Voice" – covering a wide array of genres from Chinese pop and Western hits to K-pop, interspersed with dynamic DJ sets. The vibe here is chic and reminiscent of a high-end nightclub, making it perfect for a vibrant night out.

KEZEE Live House: Latest Comprehensive Booking Guide

Location: Inside INS New Paradise (INS新乐园) on the 3rd Floor, 109 Yandang Road, conveniently near Xintiandi station.
Booking is Non-Negotiable: You absolutely must book in advance—days to a week ahead for weekends. Walk-ins are likely to face long waits or disappointment. Contact them by phone or through a sales representative.
Understanding the Minimum Spend:
- Stand-up tables (散台): 500 RMB (for up to 4 people).
- Lounge seating (卡座): Weekdays 3,000-5,000 RMB; Weekends 5,000-8,000 RMB (for 6-10 people).
- Private Rooms (包房): Weekdays 5,000 RMB; Weekends 10,000 RMB (for 20-25 people), some offering rooftop terraces.
Note: KEZEE operates independently and is not included in the general INS New Paradise complex pass.
Timing: Doors open at 8 PM, with singers taking the stage around 9:30 PM. Performances continue until 2 AM on weekdays and 2:45 AM on weekends.
Food & Drinks: Their cocktails, like "Emily" and "Jie Di Lian," come highly recommended, as do their snacks, including truffle fries and roasted chicken feet. Keep an eye out for group buying packages on platforms like Dianping for potential deals.

Shanghai's Top Live House

Shanghai Live House Ranking: Personal Picks

Xiang (響) Livehouse: The Immersive Spectacle Described as an "upgraded liveshow" and a "super treasure" discovery, Xiang Livehouse offers a truly energetic and immersive atmosphere. Reportedly spanning five stories with soaring high ceilings, it seamlessly blends live singing with dynamic DJ sets and plenty of space for dancing.

Must-Visit Live Houses in Shanghai

Location: Yangpu District, Huliabao Di F1 (杨浦区互联宝地F1 座).
Booking: Advance booking is recommended to avoid queues.
Minimum Spend:
- Stand-up tables (散台): No minimum on weekdays; 500 RMB on weekends.
- Small Lounge (小卡): Weekdays 800 RMB; Weekends 1,500 RMB (for 4-6 people).
- Large Lounge (大卡): Weekdays 1,500-2,000 RMB; Weekends 2,000-3,000 RMB (for 8-10 people).
- VVIP: 5,000 RMB.
Timing: Opens 8 PM, with 20-minute singing sets starting around 9:30 PM.

Yuyintang (育音堂): The Heart of Indie Shanghai A true legend in Shanghai's live music scene, Yuyintang is an "old Shanghai" livehouse known for its authentic underground and independent music. It's a casual, unpretentious spot, beloved by serious music lovers and a prime venue for discovering new and emerging bands.

Yuyintang Music Park: Visit & Photo Guide

Location: Mentioned as "Yuyintang Music Park" near Zhongshan Park.
Tickets: Typically around 40 RMB, which often includes one complimentary drink.
Tips: Look out for special promotions, like free entry with a movie ticket stub from "Good Things." This is the place for a raw, pure livehouse experience.

Enjoy the Music and Dance!

Modernsky Lab (摩登天空MODERNSKY LAB): Indie Fan Favorite A go-to for indie music enthusiasts, Modernsky Lab frequently hosts performances by popular domestic independent bands. It features two floors, with the second floor often accessible to those who purchase drink tickets.

Location: 309-310, Ruihong Tiandi Yue Liang Wan, 188 Ruihong Road, Hongkou District.
Timing: Performances generally start around 8 PM, making it a great after-work destination.

HEYDAY (Jazz Bar): Retro Sophistication For a touch of elegance and a journey back to 1930s Shanghai, HEYDAY is a unique and sophisticated jazz bar. It hosts professional jazz bands daily (except Mondays) on an intimate stage, drawing both local and international crowds seeking a refined and atmospheric evening.

Shanghai Live House: Chic Old-School Jazz Bar

Location: Ground Floor, 50 Tai'an Road, Changning District (near Xingguo Road).
Tickets & Minimum Spend: Entry is typically 80-100 RMB (sometimes free on weekdays). A minimum spend applies on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays, varying by seating type:
- 2-person table: 500 RMB
- 4-person round table: 1,000 RMB
- Small sofa (5-6 people): 1,500 RMB
- Large sofa (7-9 people): 2,000 RMB
Timing: Opens 8 PM, with performances usually commencing around 9:45 PM.
Features: Praised for its authentic jazz experience, quality cocktails (around 100 RMB each), and elegant ambiance. Advance reservations are highly recommended for optimal seating.

TZ House Music Live (TZ House音乐现场): A Hidden Gem Considered a "super treasure" livehouse by those who've discovered it, TZ House is known for hosting relatively well-known singers, creating a great atmosphere with attentive service.

Shanghai's Hidden Gem Live House

Location: Room L222, 2nd Floor, Jin Hongqiao Mall, 179 Maotai Road (near Loushanguan Road subway station).
Practical Info: It operates on a minimum spend, but the drinks are noted for their good quality.

Mengtian (梦田): Shanghai's Weekend Hotspot Dubbed "Shanghai's most popular livehouse," especially on weekends, Mengtian boasts a fantastic atmosphere that resonates particularly well with young people, featuring talented singers.

Location: Very conveniently located in Jing'an Temple.
Minimum Spend: Expect a minimum spend of 1,000-1,500 RMB.
Booking: Weekend bookings are critical—try to reserve a week in advance. Even with late bookings for less ideal seats, staff are sometimes able to assist with better placement if availability opens up.

Other Notable Live Music & Entertainment Venues

Beyond the dedicated livehouses, Shanghai offers other spots that host live music or contribute to the broader nightlife experience:

Bandai Namco Shanghai Cultural Center (万代南梦宫上海文化中心): Known for its excellent stage, lighting, and sound effects, making it a solid choice for concerts.
MAO Livehouse: An older, established venue. While sometimes criticized for poor mobile signal and dated restrooms, it offers a second floor for seating with drink purchases.
Wa Si (瓦肆): Provides a good atmosphere with tiered seating in the back for comfortable viewing, even from a distance.
MOSSO: Another livehouse option, with specific minimum spends: 800 RMB for stand-up, 1,500-3,000 RMB for lounges.
LIVERSE Sound Universe (LIVERSE音宇宙): A larger venue capable of hosting major concerts (e.g., Alan Tam), with tickets potentially ranging from 1,799-2,299 RMB for high-profile events.

Alan Tam 'For You …. ONLY' Concert Tickets: Sales Opening Soon

INS New Paradise (复兴公园ins新乐园): This is a vast, multi-floor complex featuring over 10 DJ stages and 12 clubs/bars (e.g., Freshman, Hush, Radi, Culture, Friends, Dirty House, Lafin & AS). While KEZEE is located within it, the general complex offers a "pass" (168-288 RMB, depending on the day) that grants entry and drinks at its other various clubs. This is more of a general nightlife hub than a traditional livehouse for bands, though it offers a pulsating club experience.

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While this guide focuses on live music venues, it's worth noting that Shanghai's broader nightlife, as seen in various local guides, also includes numerous dedicated clubs specializing in genres like Hip-hop, EDM, and K-pop, often operating with similar minimum spend structures and catering to different energy levels throughout the night.

2025 Shanghai Bar Guide

Jia Rengong Craft Beer & Cocktail Bar (嘉仁宫·精酿鸡尾酒吧): For a more casual live music experience, this bar occasionally hosts live events, often with no entry ticket, just a minimum spend on one drink.

How to Get Tickets or Secure Entry

Navigating the booking process is crucial for a smooth Shanghai live music experience:

Ticket Platforms for Concerts/Bands:
- Xiudong (秀动): Highly popular for independent musicians, bands, and rappers (both domestic and international). It even supports gifting tickets, helping to bypass scalpers.
- Zhengzai Xianchang (正在现场): Modernsky's official app, ideal for tours and merchandise related to Modernsky artists.
- Damai (大麦) / Maoyan (猫眼): General ticketing platforms covering a wider range of performances, including larger concerts.
- NetEase Cloud Music (网易云音乐): Also a source for concert tickets, particularly for artists promoted on their platform.
- Other platforms like Funwan Island (纷玩岛) and Piaoquan (票圈) are occasionally mentioned.

Shanghai Live House Ultimate Ticket Booking Guide

Direct Booking for Livehouses: For venues like KEZEE, Xiang, HEYDAY, TZ House, and Mengtian, direct booking with the venue is the standard method. This often involves calling ahead or contacting a sales representative (many operate via WeChat in China) to reserve lounge seating or private rooms, especially given the minimum spend requirements.

Wanted: Na Ena Shanghai Live House Tickets This image highlights the keen interest and demand for livehouse tickets among locals, showcasing the vibrant fan culture.

Essential Tips for Your Shanghai Live Music Adventure

To make the most of your night out, keep these practical tips in mind:

Always Book in Advance: This cannot be stressed enough for popular livehouses, particularly on weekends. Booking days or even a week ahead for places like KEZEE, Xiang, and Mengtian is vital to secure your spot and avoid long queues or disappointment. "Walk-ins" during peak hours are generally not recommended.
Understand "Minimum Spend": As mentioned, many higher-end livehouses operate on a minimum spend per table or person. Be sure to clarify this amount, as it will cover your drinks and possibly food.
Timing is Key: While many venues open at 8 PM, live performances often kick off later, typically around 9:30 PM or even 9:45 PM for jazz clubs. Arriving a bit early allows you to settle in and get a good view.
Travel Light: Some venues offer lockers, but they can be pricey (e.g., 10 RMB/hour at INS New Paradise). Minimize what you carry for ease of movement.
Transportation: Given the late hours and potential alcohol consumption, ride-sharing services like Didi (China's Uber equivalent) are highly recommended. Parking can be expensive or difficult to find.
Explore Different Styles: Shanghai's live music scene is incredibly diverse. If you're looking for high-energy pop, rock, or hip-hop with a club-like atmosphere, KEZEE or Xiang might be your best bet. For a more authentic indie experience, head to Yuyintang or Modernsky Lab. And for a sophisticated evening of classic jazz, HEYDAY offers an unparalleled ambiance.
Look for Deals: Before you go, check local group buying platforms like Dianping (China's Yelp/Groupon equivalent) for packages or discounts. New customer offers or early bird tickets can sometimes be found.
Service: Many venues, particularly the more upscale ones like KEZEE, are praised for their excellent service. Don't hesitate to ask staff for assistance.
Smoking Policy: While indoor smoking is generally prohibited in most venues, electronic cigarettes might be permitted in some. Check local regulations or venue-specific rules.

Shanghai's live music and livehouse scene is a vibrant tapestry of sounds and experiences. Whether you're seeking a high-energy dance floor, an intimate jazz performance, or the raw energy of an indie band, the city has a beat for you. Enjoy immersing yourself in Shanghai's unforgettable nights! (See the image gallery below for more visual inspiration.)

Image Gallery

All images from the trending posts that inspired this article:

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微醺指南‼️超强INS新乐园速通攻略

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收那艺娜上海live house票

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即将开票｜谭咏麟「For You …. ONLY」

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📷跟着《好东西》去打卡了育音堂音乐公园

Enjoy the Music and Dance!

请随着音乐尽情摇摆！

KEZEE Live House: Latest Comprehensive Booking Guide

KEZEE live house最新更新保姆级预订攻略

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在上海发现一家超级宝藏的LiveHouse🪩！

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全上海Top1的Live House

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推荐3家上海必去的livehouse

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Must-Visit Live Houses in Shanghai

上海必去livehouse

Shanghai Live House Ranking: Personal Picks

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Shanghai Live House: Chic Old-School Jazz Bar

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Eason Chan '任我行' Cover Concert: Sat, March 1st

3.1周六|陈奕迅"任我行”cover音乐会🎙

Shanghai KEZEE: Affordable Club-Style Live House

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Xiang: Coming to Shanghai!

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Review: Shanghai's Most Popular Live House

我去了上海最有人气的Live House

This article is based on trending content from XiaoHongShu. View the original search results and detailed analysis to explore the individual posts and community insights that inspired this piece.